Wow What a building This is the Bedford Building. A stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture. It stands proudly at 99 Bedford Street. It’s a real hidden gem in Boston’s downtown area.
Built in 1875 the Bedford Building has a rich history. Architects Charles Amos Cummings and Willard T Sears designed it. They created a masterpiece of polychromatic beauty. The building showcases New Brunswick red granite. It also uses Tuckahoen marble and pressed terra-cotta panels from Philadelphia. This was quite innovative for its time. It was the first building after the Great Boston Fire to use this specific red granite. This shows the city’s resilience.
The Bedford Building wasn’t just aesthetically pleasing. It incorporated cutting-edge fire prevention features. These were essential after the devastating Great Boston Fire of 1872. The building included fire-blocking internal brick walls. This was a significant advancement in building codes.
Originally designed as a retail shoe center for Henry and Francis Lee the Bedford Building has seen many changes. It underwent renovations in 1983. The Bay-Bedford Company updated the structure. A later renovation restored original details. It also added a retail atrium.
The Bedford Building’s details are captivating. The first floor has rough rustic blocks. The upper floors have arched bay windows. There are also Viollet-le-Duc inspired iron balconets. Each roof gable is topped with a finial crown. A glazed tile clock is in a five-story tower. This magnificent clock is located at the northeast corner. The building is more than just a building. It’s a testament to architectural innovation. It’s a symbol of Boston’s enduring spirit. The Bedford Building is a true treasure. It’s a must-see for any visitor to Boston.